Catfish are a fascinating and diverse group of fish which have become hugely popular as aquarium fish. They range from the tiny Otocinclus to giants like the Red-Tailed catfish. All catfish possess one or more pairs of barbels, one of their most distinguishing features. Catfish are also scaleless, and some are protected instead by ‘armour’ consisting of bony plates. The variety of size and form of catfish means there is a species to suit almost any aquarium setup.
The Glass Catfish, or Kryptopterus bicirrhis, is from Southeastern Asian countries, including Borneo, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Thailand. The Glass Catfish, also known as Ghost Fish, the Indian Ghost, Glass Catfish, or Glass Cat, is a very unique fish. Its translucent body allows onlookers to see its inner body, including organs and the skeleton. Glass Catfish are very active and peaceful.
Glass Catfish usually need to be kept in groups of five or more. If they are not kept in groups, they will often go into a state of stress, and many will die from the stress. The Glass Catfish is a great community fish, if kept in a large enough tank. They will generally not bother other fish, unless they are small enough to be eaten. They should not be kept with fry, as the Glass Catfish will eat them. They do not like a lot of light. In darkness or low light, the Glass Catfish will come into the open and swim around. If their tank is brightly illuminated, they will usually hide from the light. Glass Catfish should be kept in large tanks with plenty of rocky coves and hiding places, as well as dense, live vegetation.
The appearance of the Glass Catfish is what makes it so popular. As mentioned before, the Glass Catfish gets its name from its clear body. Internal organs and the skeleton structure can be seen from outside. The Glass Catfish usually has a few light patches of dark color on its head and under its body. They also have a silvery layer of scales, which will reflect ambient light. This acts as a camouflage and has the ability to make the Glass Catfish blend into its surroundings.
At maturity, the Glass Catfish will reach a size of four to six inches. They have two maxillary barbells, and a long anal fin with 50 to 70 rays in it. Glass Catfish do not see very well, but they do have several whiskers, which they use to feel their way around. The two sexes are completely indistinguishable.